Chinese Chicken Noodle Salad

Chinese Chicken Noodle Salad is a light yet satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and noodles, all tossed in a flavorful sesame-ginger dressing. This salad is perfect for warm days or as a refreshing meal when you want something packed with texture and taste. The tangy, slightly sweet dressing enhances the vibrant mix of ingredients, making it a delicious and healthy option for lunch or dinner. It’s versatile, easy to make ahead, and perfect for meal prepping or bringing to a potluck.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, rice noodles, or lo mein noodles)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews (optional, for crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional for creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional for heat)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the noodles are cooking, shred the carrots, slice the cabbage and red bell pepper, and chop the green onions and cilantro. Set the vegetables aside.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, peanut butter (if using), and chili garlic sauce. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, and prepared vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the salad with toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts or cashews, and additional cilantro if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This Chinese Chicken Noodle Salad is a refreshing, flavorful meal that’s perfect for when you’re craving something light but satisfying, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite!